James Sands has left Rangers early, it has been confirmed.
The versatile midfielder has returned to parent club New York City FC.
The American international joined Rangers on loan from the MLS side in January 2022 under the stewardship of Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Used as a utility man, Sands would go on to make over 40 appearances both domestically and in Europe for the Light Blues.
He was part of the side that triumphed in last season's Scottish Cup success.
#RangersFC can today confirm James Sands has returned to parent club @NYCFC. Everyone at Rangers wishes him well moving forwards.
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) March 1, 2023
A short statement reads: "Rangers Football Club can today confirm James Sands has returned to parent club New York City FC.
"The United States international joined Rangers on-loan in January 2022 and went on to make 41 appearances for the club in both domestic and European competition.
"Sands featured for the Light Blues in the 2021/22 Europa League final and played his part in last season’s Scottish Cup run, as Rangers lifted the trophy for the first time in 13 years.
"He has also made a contribution to this year’s run in the Scottish Cup, with the winning goal against Partick Thistle in the last round of the competition."
Rangers did obtain an option to buy Sands at the end of his loan deal this summer.
Michael Beale said: "I would like to thank James for his time at Rangers. He was a well-liked player in our squad and I enjoyed working with him on a daily basis. I believe he will go on to have an excellent career.
“The opportunity to return to NYCFC for the start of the MLS season, where he will be a key player in their squad, was something that we felt was correct for all parties. Everyone at Rangers wishes him well moving forwards.”
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